Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff calls on Chinese President

September 18,2018

General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), called on Chinese President Xi Jinping on 19 September 2018. Gen. Bajwa is on an official visit to China.
The Chinese President said that Pakistan is China’s time tested iron friend and the Pakistan Army has a pivotal role towards this lasting relationship. He appreciated professionalism of Pakistan Armed Forces and acknowledged its role towards regional peace and stability. He said that China shall continue to support Pakistan as a strategic partner. President Xi said that those who oppose Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) or CPEC shall never succeed as this is an initiative of peace and development not only for China but for the region and beyond. 
COAS thanked President Xi for acknowledging professionalism and contributions of Pakistan Army towards regional peace and stability. COAS said that regional peace is important for Pakistan and the entire nation has rendered many sacrifices for it.
Gen. Bajwa said that the BRI with CPEC as its flagship project is destined to succeed despite all odds and the Pakistan Army will ensure security of CPEC at all costs. COAS underlined the importance of joint efforts to thwart the designs of forces seeking to challenge Pakistan-China friendship. 
During his visit to China, COAS also held meetings with leadership of the People’s Liberation Army and held talks with General Zhang Youxia, Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC). During these meetings, bilateral military cooperation and the regional security situation were discussed.